Domaine Ricci Bologne Rhum Agricole Blanc 2022

Domaine Ricci bottled this 2022 white from Bologne, one of Guadeloupe's historic estates, distilling from fresh-pressed sugar-cane juice rather than molasses. As a Guadeloupe agricole it falls under the IGP, and it is unaged and unsweetened, presented at a formidable 66.5%.

This is cane juice with almost nothing between the drinker and the still, a column-still blanc kept grassy and vegetal on purpose. The nose is fresh and citrussy with sugar-cane sap, the palate stays oily, grassy and bright with citrus, and the finish is pure agricole freshness. The high strength amplifies the green, peppery snap rather than masking it, so a few drops of water open it considerably. Dry and uncompromising, it is made for Ti' Punch with lime and a little cane syrup, or for anyone who wants cane spirit at full intensity.